Steroid ketals of the pregnane series



States atent fifice 3,069,417 Patented Dec. 18, 1962 STEROID KETALS OF THE PREGNANE SERIES Martin J. Weiss, Oradell, N.J., and John F. Poletto and Henry M. Kissnlan, Nanuet, N.Y., assignors to American Cyanamid Company, New York, N.Y., a corporation of Maine N Drawing. Filed Jan. 30, 1961, Ser. No. 85,507 13 Claims. (Cl. 260239.55)

This invention relates to -ketals of the pregnane series. More particularly, it relates to 3-keto-1,4-pregnadiene 20-ketals, intermediates and methods of preparing the same.

The novel compounds of this invention can be illustrated by the following general formula:

wherein C is a divalent radical of the group consisting of CHaR:

O-CHRr O-CH:

droxyl, lower alkanoyloxy and lower alkyl radicals and R is a member of the group consisting of hydrogen and lower alkyl radicals. This invention also includes compounds of the group consisting of 21-lower alkanoyloxy- 20-lower alkylenedioxy-l 15,170: dihydroxy-6a-methyl-4- pregnen 3 ones; 20-lower alkylenedioxy-6a-methyl-l1B, 17 0:,21 trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-ones; 21-lower alkanoyloxy-20-lower alkylenedioxy 115,170: dihydroxy-2a,6a-

2 dimethyl-4-pregnen-3-ones; 20-lower alkylidenedioxy-2a, 6ct-difi16thYl 11,8,17a,21-dihydroxy-4-pregnen--3-ones and 20-lower alkylidenedioxy 2 lower alkoxalyl-oa-methyl- 1 1,3, l7m,21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-ones.

The present compounds are at least somewhat soluble in the usual organic solvents and relatively insoluble in water. They are, in general, solids having a relatively high'melting point, usually above 150 C.

The novel 20-ketals of this invention are prepared by ketalization methods described in the chemical art. Generally, the procedure comprises heating a 20-keto steroid with a 1,2-glycol for example, ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, etc. usually in an inert solvent such as, for example, benzene, toluene or the like in the presence of catalytic amounts of acidic reagents such as, for example, p-toluenesulfonic acid. The temperature may vary from about C. to C. and the reaction is usually complete in from about four to eight hours. It is often expedient in carrying out the reaction to use a water separator. The reaction product is then ordinarily obtained by crystallization, and if necessary, chromatography. Under such conditions, the A -3-ketoand ll-keto systems do not undergo ketalization. However, the starting steroid is a A--3-ketone rather than a A -3-ketone, ketalization will be effected at the 3-position as well as at the 20-position thus yielding, in major proportion, a 3,20-bis-ketal. Such 3,20-bis-ketals, however, may, in general, be converted to their desired. 20-ketal counterparts (if necessary, after first acylating the 21-hydroxyl grouping) by mild hydrolysis (such as with aqueous acetic acid or the like), thereby preferentially de-ketalizing the 3-position. For 20-ketalization, it is preferable to use an ll-keto derivative rather than an 1lfi-hydroxy derivative. The llfi-hydroxy group may be introduced subsequently by a metal hydride reduction of the ll-carbonyl group. During this latter reduction, both the 3- and ZO-keto groups have to ,be blocked, preferably by ethylenedioxy groups. It is also preferable to carry out the ketalization reaction in the presence of a free 21-hydroxyl rather than a 21-acyloxy derivative. 21-acyloxy derivatives can be conveniently prepared from the 21-ol-20-ketal by the usual mild acylation procedure, for example, with acetic anhydride in pyridine solution. When necessary, l-dehydrogenation of A -3-ketones may be effected by treating with 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyanobenzoquinone or 1 with selenium dioxide.

--O H O i I I -toluenesulfonic p acid (PTSA CHr-CH:

O H O H PTSA XIII

XVI

CHIOAO CHaOAc 1. HOAc 0 I: 2. A020 XXII XXIII NC 01 K:C0a

NC G1 XXIV 4 in which Ac is a lower alkanoyl radical. They can be used as the active ingredient in pharmaceu- The novel compounds of this mventlon have potent tical preparations such as tablets, pills, capsules, powcorticoid activity and therefore are useful for the treatders and topical preparations such as ointments, etc. and

ment of various collagen diseases such as arthritis, for the like which also may include one or more other therathe treatment of asthma and dermatological disorders. 75 peutically active components. In these forms the usual 9. inert ingredients necessary to thecompounding of the pharmaceutical preparations are understood to be present. Also, the 2-alkoxalyl steroids are useful as intermediates and can be converted into the corresponding Z-fluoro steroids and other useful corticoids.

- The following examples describe in detail the preparation of representative compounds of the present invention and in the examples melting points are taken in an open capillary tube and are uncorrected. The ultraviolet spectra are determined in methanol on a Cary recording spectrophotometer and the infrared spectra (pressed potassium bromide discs) are carried out with a Perkin- El-mer spectrophotometer (model 21). Polarirnetric data is obtained in chloroform solution unless stated otherwise. All evaporations are carried out under reduced pressure. Except where otherwise noted, the petroleum ether used is that fraction boiling at 60-70 C.

EXAMPLE 1 Preparation of Prednisone 20-Ethylene Ketal (1711,21- Dihydroxy 20 Ethylenedioxy-I,4-Pregnadiene-3,II- Dz'one, II

A solution of 1701,21 dihydroxy 1,4 pregnadiene- 3,11,20-trione (prednisone, I) g.) in benzene (275 ml.) is refluxed with ethylene glycol (35 ml.) containing ptoluenesulfonic acid monohydrate (175 mg.) for 4% hours using a water trap. The mixture is cooled, neutralized with sodium bicarbonate and the benzene layer separates. This layer is washed to neutrality, dried and evaporated to give a glass which resists crystallization. The ethylene glycol layer is then extracted with ethyl acetate after addition of water. The ethyl acetate extract is washed to neutrality, dried and evaporated. The

residue is slurried with acetone to give 1.8 g. of (II), melting point 230-232; negative u-ketol test. A mixed melting point with starting material (I) shows a depression, melting point 201-208. Crystallization from chloroform-acetone raises the melting point to 231- 233 C.

Infrared analysis indicates solvation with chloroform.

A portion of the above material is crystallized from ethyl acetate-petroleum ether (90-100") giving material melting at 232-234" C.; [u] +1l5, +101, +116";

7&3? 237 m (61;?- 341); infrared analysis indicated solvation with ethyl acetate, 1 KB}; 3670, 1746, 1710, 1666, 1622, 1604, 1210, 1046, 896 and 675 cm.-

EXAMPLE 2 Preparation of Prednz'sone 20-Ethylene Ketal 21 -Acetate (ZI-Acetoxy-ZO-Ethylenedioxy 17a Hydroxy 1,4- Pregnadiene-3II-Dione, IV)

Preparation of Prednisone ZO-Propylene Ketal (1711,21- Dihydroxy 20 Propylenedioxy 1,4 Pregnadien-e- 3,1I-Di0ne, III) A mixture of 170:,21 dihydroxy 1,4 pregnadiene- 3,11,20-trione (I) (4.0 g.), benzene (250 m1.), 1,2-propanediol (30 ml.), and p-toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate (150 mg.) is stirred and refluxed for 4 /2 hours with constant water takeoif. After the usual workup, a

glass is obtained which crystallizes on the addition of benzene. The solid is collected by filtration giving 1.22

g. (26%), melting point 148-152 C. negative a-ketol.

test with blue tetrazolium. Recrystallization from acetone-benzene raises the melting point to 156-l59 C.;

[a] 109 (chloroform);

1x32 238 mp (614,900); v; 1610, 1043 and 6.87 the (benzene) EXAMPLE 4 Preparation of Prednisone 20-Pr0pylene Ketal 21 -Acetate Prednisone 20-propylene ketal (III, Example 3) (300 mg.) is acetylated in the usual manner with. acetic anhydride in pyridine solution. Water is added to the reaction solution and the mixture is extracted with ethyl acetate. The extract is washed with water, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate and evaporated to dryness. The residual semi-solid is crystallized from acetonepetroleum ether to yield 209 mg., melting point 197.5- 198.5 C. (63%); [a] +119 (chloroform); $52 238 m (615,300); vfili'. 3260, 1752, 1714, 1670, 1636, 1612, 1244 and 1048 em.

In a similar manner, treatment of compound III with propionic anhydride or butyric anhydride in pyridine solution gives the corresponding 21-propionate and 21- butyrate, respectively.

EXAMPLE s Preparation of 6a-Methylhydrocortisone 20-Ethylene- Ketal ZO-EIhyIenedioxy-d a-M ethyl-1 1 6,1 7 11,21 -T rihydroxy-4-Pregnen-3-One, VII) tone-petroleum ether to give pure product, melting point 255-256 C.; [a] :0 (chloroform);

v22, 3544, 1750, 1718, 1228 and 1050 emr To 1 g. (0.002 mole) of 21-acetoxy-20-ethylenedioxy- 5a,11,6,17a-trihydroxy-6fi-methylpregnan-3-one (VI) in 86 ml. methanol under a stream of nitrogen is added 86 ml. of 0.1 N sodium hydroxide. The solution is allowed to stand for 17 hours at room temperature under nitrogen 223-225 C. A sample is recrystallized twice from acetone-petroleum ether to give material melting at 232- 233 C.; [a] +76.3, (chloroform); 7 A 241 m (6 14,400) 1:52,, 3490, 1680, 1668 (shoulder),

max.

1614 and 1050 cm.

A 30 g. further experiment gives 22.5 g. (85.5%) of product (VII), melting point 227-229 C.

EXAMPLE 6 Preparation of 6 a-M elhylhydrocortisone ZO-Ethylene Ketal,

21-Acetate (21 -Acetoxy-11,B-1 7 a-D ihydroxy-ZO-Eihylenedioxy-6a-Methyl-4-Pregnen-3-One, VIII) A solution of 6u-methylhydrocortisone ZO-ethyleneketal (VII, Example 5) (1 g.) in pyridine (10 m1.) is

treated with acetic anhydride (3 ml.) for 16 hours at room temperature.

Ice water is added and the mixture is exmm 242 m (e14,900); 11;; 3392, 1740, 1650, 1602, 1234 and 1052 cm."

In a similar manner, treatment of compound VII with propionic anhydride or butyric anhydride in pyridine solution gives the corresponding 2l-propionate or 21- butyrate.

EXAMPLE 7 Preparation of 6u-Methylprednis0lone ZO-Ethylene Ketal 21 -Acetate (21-Acetoxy-20-Ethylenedioxy-l16,1 7a-Dihydrxy-6a-Methyl-1 ,4-Pregnadiene-3-One, IX)

A solution of 11B,l7tx,21-trihydroxy-6a-methy1-4-pregnene-3-one 20-ethylene ketal (VII, Example 5) (3 g.) in a mixture of tertiary-butanol (300 ml.) and Water (21 ml.) containing selenium dioxide (3 g.) is refluxed for a period of 50 hours. The'metallic residue is removed by filtration and the filtrate neutralized with saturated sodium bicarbonate solution. The mixture is evaporated and the residue triturated with chloroform. This solution is then dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate and evaporated. This gives a glass which, upon treatment with methanol, yielded an insoluble material which is removed by filtration. The methanol solution is treated by deactivated Raney nickel for a period of two hours at room temperature. The Raney nickel is removed by filtration and the filtrate evaporated. The residue is dissolved in benzene and chromatographed on silica gel. Elution with chloroform gives amixture of products and the eluates are combined and evaporated. The residue which contained 6a-methylprednisolone ZO-ethylene ketal is acetylated under the usual mild conditions and after workup, partition chromatography on diatomaceous earth with the system; heptane: 5; ethyl acetate: 2; methanol: 5; water: 2 gives two minor non-polar components absorbing at 240 These are set aside and the column is washed with methanol. The methanol wash is evaporated to dryness and the residue crystallized from acetone petroleum ether to give 231 mg. of (IX), melting point 206- 209 C. (9%). Recrystallization from the same solvent pair raised the melting point to 213-215 C.; [a] +35 (chloroform) h 'fiff 243 mp. (614,500); 553,, 3440, 1750, 1662, 1610, 1252, 1052 and 890 cm.

EXAMPLE 8 Preparation of 6a-Methylprednisolone ZO-Ethylene Ketal 21-Acetate (1X) A solution containing 6a-methylhydrocortisone 20- ethylene ketal 21-acetate (VIII, Example 6) (1.2 g) and 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone [E. A. Braude et al., J. Chem. Soc., 3569 (1959)] (0.8 g.) in dioxane (100 ml.) is refluxed for five days. The residue obtained on evaporation to dryness is taken up in benzene containing a small amount of ethyl acetate. The extract is washed with water, cold 1% aqueous potassium hydroxide solution (3x) and finally with water repeatedly until the washings are neutral. The washed solution is then dried and evaporated to give a solid residue which, on recrystallization from acetone-petroleum ether, gives 710 mg. of IX, melting point 212-214 C. The infrared spectrum is identical to that of the product obtained by selenium dioxide dehydrogenation (Example 7). Polarographic analysis indicates the presence of more than 90% A -3-one.

12 EXAMPLE 9 Preparation of 6a-Methylprednisone ZO-Ethylene Ketal 21 -Acetate (21 Acetoxy 20 Ethylenedioxy-l 7a-Hydr0xy-6 a-M ethyl-1 ,4-Pregnaa'i ems-3 ,1 1 -Dione, X l

A benzene solution (55 ml.) containing 6oc-methylprednisone (X) [Spero et al., J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 78, 6213 (1956)] (1.0 g.), ethylene glycol (7 ml.), p-toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) (35 mg.) is refluxed 4 /2 hours (water trap). Excess solid sodium bicarbonate is added, the mixture is cooled, water is added and the combined phases are extracted with ethyl acetate. (400 ml.). The extract is Washed to neutrality with saturated saline solution, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate and evaporated to dryness. The resulting hard glass gives a slightly positive a-ketol test and cannot be crystallized. It is dissolved in benzene and chromatographed on silica gel (30 'g.). An initial fraction (0.15 g.) obtained by elution with chloroform is discarded. Elution with acetone gives a second fraction (0.75 g.) which gives a negative u-ketol test. This material (6a-methylprednisone 20-ethylene ketal) is acetylated with acetic anhydride in pyridine solution in the usual manner to give a glass which crystallizes when triturated With ether, giv-.

ing 215 mg. of product (XI), melting point 170-172 0.,

Several recrystallizations from acetone-petroleum ether raises the melting point to 173l74 C.; [u] l-109.

(chloroform) my 235 m (e16,800); v5. 3596, 1746, 1707, 1665, 1624, 1603, 1238 and 1044 c1117 EXAMPLE 10 Preparation of 20-Ethylenedi0xy-9a-Fluoro-l 7a-Hydr0xy- 6a-Methyl-1,4-Pregnadiene-3,11 -Di0ne (XIII) evaporated. The solid residue is crystallized from acetonepetroleum ether to give 081 g. (62%) of 9oc-fi11OIO-17othydroxy-6a-methyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,1 1,20 trione, melting point 230233 C. Three recrystallizations of a portion raises the melting point to 247-248 C.; [a] +92 (dioxane);

max.

A stirred mixture containing 9a-fiuoro-17a-hydroxy- 6a-methyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,11,20-trione (XII) (0.6 g.),

KBr max.

3460, 1724, 1708, 1626 and benzene m1), ethylene glycol (8 ml.) and p-toluene-.

sulfonic acid monohydrate (35 mg.) is heated at refiux for a period of five hours using a water separator. The. solution is cooled, neutralized with sodium bicarbonate solution, water is added and the mixture is extracted with ethyl acetate. The extract is washedwith water, dried and evaporated. The solid residue is recrystallized from acetone-petroleum ether to give 479 mg. of XIII, melting point 237239 C. (71%). Recrystallization from the same solvent pair raises the melting point to 243-245" C;

[a] |79 (dioxane);

max.

1614 and 1052 cm.

EXAMPLE 11 Preparation of 21 -Acetoxy-3,20-Bisethylenedioxy-9u- Flaoro-l 7 oc-H ydroxy-S -Pregnen-l 1 -One (XIV) A mixture of Qwfluoro-l7a,21-dihydroxy-4-pregnene- 3,11,20-trione [Fried et al., J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 79,

1130 (1957)] (5.6 g.) and ethylene glycol (125 ml.) is concentrated to a volume of 100 ml. under reduced pressure (2 mm.) at a still-head temperature of 100. Paratoluenesulfonic acid monohydrate (225 mg.) is added and slow distillation continues with vigorous stirring for a period of 2% hours. The mixture is neutralized with aqueous potassium hydroxide solution (3 ml., 10%) and water is added. Chloroform is added and the layers separate. The aqueous layer is extracted with chloroform and the chloroform extracts combined. The organic extract is washed with water, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate and evaporates. This gives a glassy residue which, when slurried with acetone, yields a crystalline product, 3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9a-fluoro-17a,21-dihydroxy-S-pregnen-l l-one (XXII) (1.38 g., melting point 241-244 C.). Concentration of the mother liquor yields an additional 0.51 g., melting point 242-245" C. (total yield 27%). Both fractions give negative a-ketol tests with blue tetrazolium. Recrystallization of the main portion raises the melting point to 251-253; [a] --34 (chloroform) 1:552 none at a concentration of 20 -y/ml.; 112. 1722, 1680, 1094 and 1054 crnf A solution of 3,2O-bisethylenedioxy-9a-fiuoro-1711,21- dihydroxy-S-pregnen-ll-one (XXII) (2.17 g.) in pyridine (35 ml.) is treated with acetic anhydride (10 ml.) and allowed to stand 50 hours at room temperature. The mixture is poured into ice water and the crystalline product (XIV) collected by filtration; 2.23 g. (95%); melting point 210-215" C. (dec.). Recrystallization from acetone raises the melting point to 227 C. (dec.); [fl -26 (chloroform) 3522, 1748, 1726, 1234 and 1050 cm.-

EXAMPLE 12 Preparation of 21 -Acetoxy-3,20-Bisethylenedi0xy-9a- Fluoro-5J6-Pregnadien-1 I-One (XV) A solution of 21-acetoxy-3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9adioxy-9a-fiuoro-17a-hydroxy-5-pregnend l-one (XIV, Example 11) (2.03 g.) in pyridine (85 ml.) is chilled to -5 and thionyl chloride (8 ml.) is added. The mixture is allowed to stand overnight at 5, and then poured into ice water. The oily mixture is extracted with ethyl acetate, the extract is washed with saturated saline, dried and evaporated. The residue is triturated with methanol and the crystalline product (XV) is collected by filtration to give 0.68 g. melting point 110113. An additional 0.1 g., melting point 110 is obtained by concentration of the mother liquor (combined yield, 37%). Recrystallization of the combined fractions from methanol raises the melting point to 126-129 C.; [a] 32 (chloroform);

1733, 1616, 1240 and 104.2 cmf EXAMPLE 13 Preparation of 3,20-Bisethylenedioxy-1 6 (2,21 -Diacet0xy- 9a-Flu0ro-11BJ 7a-Dihydroxy-5-Pregnene (XIX) A solution of 2l-acetoxy-3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9afluoro-5,16-pregnadien-1l-one (XV, Example 12) (4.9 g.) in tetrahydrofuran (100 ml.) and benzene (20 m1.) is chilled to 0 and treated with lithium borohydride 1.5 g.) and stirred for five hours at room temperature. The mixture is carefully neutralized with acetic acid, water is added and the mixture is extracted with chloroform. The extract is washed with saturated saline solution, dried and evaporated. The semi-solid product is crystallized from acetone-petroleum ether to give 1.58 g., of 3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9a-fluoro 115,21 dihydroxy-5,l6-pregnadiene (XVI), melting point 202 C. (dec.). The mother liquor yielded an additional 1.00 g., melting point 199 C. (dec.) (combined yield 57% A portion is recrystallized from the same solvent pair raising the melting point to 215- 217". C., [a] 31 (chloroform);

none; 11%; 3440, 1622 and 1034 cm.- A solution of 3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9a-fluoro-l15,21-

dihydroxy-S,l6-pregnadiene (XVI) (1.26 g.) and os-.

mium tetroxide (0.75 g.) in benzene (250 ml.) and pyridine (1.2 ml.) is allowed to stand overnight at room temperature. The osmate ester is decomposed by the addition of water (50 ml.), methanol (21 ml.), potassium bicarbonate (3.5 g.) and sodium sulfite (3.5 'g.). After the mixture is stirred for two hours, chloroform and water are added and the insoluble red precipitate removed by filtration. The layers are separated and the water layer extracted with additional chloroform. The chloroform extracts are combined, washed with water, dried and evaporated. This gives 0.75 g. of 3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9afluoro-l1,8,16a,l7a,21 tetrahydroxy-S-pregnene (XVII), melting point 235236 C. The water layer is then reextracted with chloroform, the extract washed with water, dried and evaporated to give an additional 0.63 g., melting point 230-23l C. (combined yield Crystallization from acetone-petroleum ether raised the melting point to 245-247 C.; [u] -28 (methanol);

KBr

11 3500 and 1056 cm.-

A solution of 3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9a-fiuoro-l1,9,16a, 17a,21-tetrahydroxy-5-pregnene (XVII) (1.05 g.) is acetylated in the usual manner by overnight treatment with acetic anhydride in pyridine solution. Ice water is added and the mixture is extracted with chloroform. The extract is washed with water and evaporated to give 1.11 g. (90%) of product (XIX), melting point -215 C. (dec. at 215). The infrared spectrum is identical to that of the material prepared by procedure B (Example 14).

EXAMPLE 14 Preparation 0 3,20-Bisethylenedioxy-1611,21 -Diacet0xy- 9a-Flu0ro-1 118,] 7a-Dihydroxy-5-Pregnene (XIX) A solution of 21-acetoxy-3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9afluoro-5,16-pregnadien-1l-one (XV, Example 12) (0.48 g.) in benzene (15 ml.) containing pyridine (0.3 ml.) is treated with osmium tetroxide (0.25 'g.) and the mixture is allowed to stand overnight at room temperature. The osmium complex formed is then discharged by stirring for four hours with a mixture of benzene (50 ml.), methanol (7 ml.), potassium bicarbonate (1.7 g.) and sodium sulfite (1.7 g.'). The red precipitate is removed by filtration and the filtrate diluted with chloroform. The extract .is washed to neutral with water, dried and evaporated. This gives a solid residue which is crystallized from chloroform-acetone to give 126 mg. of 2l-acetoxy-3,20-bisethylenedioxy-16a,17a-dihydroxy 9a fluoro 5-pregnen-l1- one (XVIII), melting point 262264 C. Recrystallization from the same solvent pair gives material melting at 259-261 #51; 3414,1738, 1703, 1246, 1103 and 1336 cm.

A solution of 21-acetoxy-3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9a over anhydrous magnesium sulfate and evaporated. This gives 0.46 g., meltingpoint 290"? C. (dec.). The water layer is re-extracted with chloroform to give an additional 0.38 g., melting point 290 C. (dec.) (combined yield:

51%). Recrystallization of a portion changed the melting point to 268 C. (dec.). Combustion analysis for this product indicates the formation of a cycloborate ester of 3,20-bisethylenedioxy 4 9a-fluoro-11B,16a,17a,21-tetrahydroxy-5-pregnene.

f A solution of 3,2O-bisethylenedioxy-9a-fluoro-115,160, 170:,21-tetrahydroxy 5-pregnene-16,17 cycloborate ester,

(0.5 g.) in pyridine (50 ml.) is treated with acetic anhydride (5 ml.) and allowed to stand overnight at room temperature. Methanol is added and the solvents removed by evaporation. The residue is dissolved in chloroform and the extract washed with water, dried and evaporated to give 0.42 g. (72%) of XIX, melting point 164- 234 C. (dec. at 234). Crystallization from acetonepetroleum ether gives a gelatin-like precipitate, melting point 147-183". This material is dissolved in acetone, treated with decolorizing charcoal, filtered and evaporated, melting point 147-235 C. (dec. at 235); [a] 46 (chloroform);

AEZQ none; v55; 3460, 1748, 1244 and 1050 cm? EXAMPLE Preparation of 16u,21-Diacet0xy-20-Ethylenedi0xy-9a- Fluor0-11,B,17a-Dihydroxy-4-Pregnen-3-0ne (XX) A solution of 3,20-bisethylenedioxy-l6a,21-diacetoxy- 9a-fluoro-l1 8,17a-dihydroxy-5-pregnene (XIX, Example 14) (1.0 g.) in aqueous acetic acid (75%, 40 ml.) is heated on the steam bath for one hour. Water is added and the mixture is extracted with chloroform. The extract is washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate solution and then to neutrality with water, dried and evaporated to give 0.77 g., melting point 158-250 C. (dec. at

EXAMPLE 16 Preparation of Triamcinolone ZO-Ethylene Ketal 16,21- Diacetate (I6a,21-Diacetoxy-9a-Flaoro-20-Ethylenedioxy-I1 8,17a-Dihydroxy-l,4-Pregnadiene-3-One) (XXI) max.

and 1062 cm.

KBr VIDIIX- EXAMPLE 17 Preparation of Triamcinolone ZO-Ethylene Ketal Ethylenedi xy 90c Fluoro 11B,16a,17a,21 Tetrahydroxy-l,4-Pregnadien-3-0ne A solution of 16,21-diacetoxy-20-ethylenedioxy-9afiuoro 115,170: -dihydroxy 1,4 -pregnadien 3 one (XXL, Example 16) (0.45 g.) in methanol (75 ml., oxygen free) is treated with aqueous potassium carbonate solution (2.0 ml., 10% oxygen free) for one hour at room temperature under a nitrogen atmosphere. The mixture is carefully neutralized with glacial acetic acid and the soiution evaporated to near dryness. Water is added to efiiect crystallization and the product collected by filtration '-'to give 53 mg. (14%); melting point 224-230 C. (dec. at 258 0.); negative a-ketol blue tetrazoleum test. The filtrate is extracted with methyl isobutyl ketone, the extract washed with water, dried and evaporated to give a glass (168 mg). Recrystallization of the crystalline fraction from acetone-petroleum ether raises the melting point to 235236 C.

EXAMPLE 18 Preparation of 9a-Flu0r0prednis0ne ZO-Ethylene Ketal (20 Ethylenedioxy 90c Fluoro 1711,21 Dihydroxy- 1,4-Pregnadiene-3,1 I-Dione, XXIV) A solution of 3,20-bisethylenedioxy-9a-fiuoro-17a,21-

dihydroxy-5-pregnen-1l-one (XXII, Example 11) (550 mg.) in aqueous acetic acid (50 ml., 50%), is heated for 30 minutes on the steam bath. The clear solution is chilled and water is added producing a gummy precipitate.

The mixture is extracted with chloroform, washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate solution and then to neutrality with saturated saline solution. The solution is, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate and evaporated to give crystalline 9a-fiuoro-cortisone ZO-ethylene ketal.

(20 ethylenedioxy 9a fluoro 1711,21 hydroxy 4-' pregnene-3,11-dione) (0.28 g. melting point 205-207" C.). petroleum ether; melting point 226228 C.; [a] +102 (chloroform) M OH Mix.

234 nip. (6 16,500)

toxy 20 ethylenedioxy 9a fluoro -17a hydroxy 4- pregnene-3,l1-dione, XXIII), melting point 227229 C. Recrystallization from acetone-petroleum ether raises the" melting point to 229-230 C.; [a] 111 '(chloroform);

as? 234 111,. (e 17,600) and 1050 cmr A solution of 464 mg. 1 mmole) of 21-acetoxy-20- ethylenedioxy 9a fluoro 17a hydroxy 4 pregnene- 3,11-dione (XXIII) and 342 mg. 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyanobenzoquinone in 40 cc. dry dioxane is refluxed with stir ring for 5 days and is then evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue is mixed with 60 cc. of benzene and is filtered. The filtrate is washed twice with 1% sodium hydroxide solution and with Water till neutral. The ben- Zone phase is dried and partially decolorized over magnesium sulfate and decolorizing charcoal and the filtered solution is evaporated and crystallized from methanol to give a solid containing 21-acetoxy-20-ethylenedioxy-9afiuoro 17a hydroxy 1,4 pregnadiene 3,11 dione. The solid is stirred in 25 cc. of methanol with 1 cc. 10% aqueous potassium carbonate solution under nitrogen for one hour. The mixture is evaporated to a small volume,- mixed with water and extracted with several portions of chloroform. The combined extracts are Washed with a little water, dried over magnesium sulfate, filtered and evaporated under reduced pressure.

and recrystallized from methylene chloride-ether to givethe product with melting point 239-240". The substance is essentially pure A -3-keto steroid as shown by polarographic analysis.

EXAMPLE 19 Preparation of 21-Ace'toxy 17a Hydroxy-ZO-Ethylenedioxy-9a-Flu0r0-6a-Metlryl-1 ,4-Pregnadiene-3,1,1-Di0ne To a cooled suspension of 0.75 g. chromic trioxide in 25 cc. pyridine is added slowly an ice-cold solution of 0.76 g. of 21-acetoxy-9a-fluoro l1,3,l7a.- dihydroxy-6amethyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,20-dione [G. B. Spero et al., J. Amer. Chem. Soc. 79, 1515 (1954)] in 25 cc. of pyridine. The resulting mixture is stirred in an ice-bath for 30 minutes and at room temperature for 16 hours. It is then poured into a mixture of ice-water and ethyl acetate. The organic phase is separated and the aqueous phase is extracted with several portions of ethyl acetate. The combined extracts are washed several times with water and are dried and partially decolorized overmagnesium sulfate and charcoal. The filtered solution is evaporated under reduced pressure and the residue is The analytical sample is crystallized from acetone- Theresidue is chrois bubbled through the Solution while 1 cc. of 10% aque ous potassium carbonate solution is added. The mixture is kept at room temperature under nitrogen for one hour and is then neutralized with a few drops of glacial acetic acid. The mixture is evaporated under reduced pressure and the residue is distributed between ethyl acetate and water. The water phase is washed with a little ethyl acetate and the combined organic extracts are dried and partially decolorized over magnesium sulfate and charcoal. Filtration and evaporation gives a residue Which crystallizes from ether (0.412 g.). Recrystallization from acetone hexane gives 90: fiuoro 170:,2l-dihYdIOXY-6amethyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,11,20-trione with melting point 205-207 C.

A mixture of 400 mg. of 9a-fiuoro-17ix,2l-dihydroxy- 6ct-methyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,11,20-trione, 35 cc. of benzene, 3 cc. of ethylene glycol and 15 mg. of p-toluenesulfonic acid is heated with vigorous stirring under reflux in a system which includes a water trap. After hours refluxing, the mixture is cooled, diluted with 50 cc. of benzene and washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate solution and with Water. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulfate, filtered and evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue is dissolved in ether, decanted from a small amount of insoluble material and decolorized with activated charcoal. Evaporation gives 331 mg. of glass. This is further purified by chromatography on 35 g. of magnesium silicate (Florisil) from benzene solution. The material is eluted with acetone-methylene chloride and isolated by evaporation to give 20-ethylenedioxy-9tat-fluoro-17a,2l-dihydroxy-6amethyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,ll-dione as a colorless glass. This is acetylated with 5 cc. of pyridine and 1 cc. of acetic anhydride at room temperature for 16 hours. The solution is added to ice water and the mixture is extracted with several portions of chloroform. The extracts are dried over magnesium sulfate, filtered and evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue is crystallized from ether to give 21-acetoxy-20-ethylenedioxy-9a-fluoro-17a,21-dihydroxy 60c methyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,l1- dione as a white solid with melting point 2l4216 (negative blue tetrazolium test).

EXAMPLE 20 Preparation of 2-Ethoxalyl-ZO-Ethylenedimyoer-Methyl- 11,8,I7ot,21-Trihydr0xy-4-Pregnen-3-One To a dry solution of 2 g. (4.76 mmole) of 20-ethylenedioxy-6a-meth yl ll,8,l7oc,21 trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3- one (VII, Example 5) in 75 cc. of benzene is added 3.9 cc. of ethyl oxalate and then under a blanket of nitrogen l g. of sodium hydride (50% oil dispersion) and 0.5 cc. of absolute ethanol. The mixture is stirred under nitrogen for 24 hours, diluted with 50 cc. of benzene and 2 cc. of ethanol and extracted with three 40 cc. portions of water. The combined extracts (dark yellow) are washed with ether and are neutralized with 30% aqueous sodium dihydrogen phosphate solution. The mixture is thoroughly extracted with chloroform and the combined extracts are washed once with water, dried over magnesium sulfate, filtered and evaporated under reduced pressure to give 1.23 g. of 2-ethoxalyl-20-ethyl- GDBdlOXY-Ga-DlBthYl 11,6,17u,21 trihydroxy-4-pregnen- 3-one as a yellow glass (positive ferric chloride test).

EXAMPLE 21 Preparation of Zoc,6a-DimethyZ-ZO-EthylenedioxyJ15,170 21-Trihydroxy-4-Pregnen-3-One The ethoxalyl derivative from Example 20 is dissolved in dry acetone (30 cc.) and there is added 2.5 g. of micronized, anhydrous potassium carbonate and 2 cc. of methyl iodide. The mixture is stirred for 24 hours and then for another 48 hours with an additional 2 cc. portion of methyl iodide. The mixture is filtered and the filtrate is evaporated under reduced pressure to give 1.09 g. of a glass containing 2-ethoxalyl-20-ethylenedioxy- 11/3,17a,20-trihydroxy 2,6 dimethyl-4-pregnen-3-one. This is dissolved in 30 cc. of methanol containing 1.6 g. of anhydrous potassium acetate and the stirred mixture is refluxed for 2 hours, evaporated under reduced pressure and the residue (740 mg.) is chromatographed on a Celite (diatomaceous earth) column from the system: ethyl acetate-heptane-methanol-water (20:80:: 12: 8). The desired product is eluted in the 5 /2-7 /2 column volume and is isolated by evaporation of pooled fraction and crystallization from ether-methylene chloride; 130 mg, melting point 221-223", [a] +54 (c. 0.5 in CHCl H.252 3 mu, (6 13,400) EXAMPLE 22 Preparation of 2 1 -A cetoxy-ZO-Ethy Iened ioxy-Z 11,6 ot-Dimethyl-11,8,17a-Dihyar0xy-1,4-Pregnadien-3-One A solution of 23 mg. 20-ethylenedioxy-2a,6a-dimethyl- 11B,17ot,21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (Example 21) in 1 cc. of pyridine and 0.3 cc. of acetic anhydride is kept at room temperature overnight. The mixture is evaporated at room temperature and the residue is dissolved in 5 cc. of chloroform, washed with a little water, dried over sodium sulfate, filtered, evaporated under reduced pressure and reevaporated with toluene to remove last traces of pyridine. The residual 2l-acetoxy-115,17a-dihydroxy-2a, 6ot-dimethyl-20-ethylenedioxy-4-pregnen-3-one is dissolved in 3 cc. dry dioxane and 17 mg. of 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyanobenzoquinone is added. The mixture is allowed to reflux for 3 days and is then evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue is taken up in 7 cc. of benzene, filtered and Washed with 1% aqueous potassium hydroxide solution and with water till neutral. The organic phase is dried over sodium sulfate, filtered and evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue is crystallized from acetone-hexane to give 13 mg. of the product with melting point 163-168";

A 5.72;; (in), 6.01 1 (s), 6.15 (s) EXAMPLE 23 Preparation of 2I-Acetoxy-20-Ethylenedioxy-9a-Fluoro- 1 7ot-Hydr0xy-16a-Methyl-1,4-Pregnadiene-3,11-Di0ne A solution containing 1.6 g. (0.0037 mole) of 2l-acetoxy 11,8,17a dihydroxy 9a. fluoro 16a methyl- 1,4-pregnadiene-3,20-dione [G. E. Arth et al., J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 80, 3161 (1958)] in glacial acetic acid (20 ml.) is chilled to 15 C. and a solution of chromium trioxide (0.47 g., 0.00453 mole) in 1 ml. of water and 10 ml. of glacial acetic acid is added. The reaction mixture is stirred at room temperature for one hour. Water (100 ml.) is added and the mixture is thoroughly extracted with chloroform. The combined chloroform extracts are washed Well with water, saturated sodium bicarbonate solution and then with water again. After drying, evaporation of the solvent gives 21-acetoxy-17ahydroxy fluoro 16a methyl 1,4 pregnadiene- 3,11,20-trione as a glass (1.6 g.) which resists crystallization. The glass is dissolved in methanol (40 ml., oxygen free) and de-O-acetylated with potassium carbonate (3.4 ml., 10% solution, oxygen free) in the usual manner. Neutralization with acetic acid (0.24 ml.) and the addition of water gives crystalline 21,17a-dihydroxy-9a-fluoro-16mmethyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,11-dione, which is filtered, washed with water and dried; yield, 0.96 g. (67% melting point 226229 C. Recrystallization of a portion from acetone-petroleum ether raises the melting point to 249 252 C., [a] -|-131 (chloroform); x25? 233-235 m (e 15,500); 11$; 3338, 1727, 1712 (shoulder), 1668, 1622 and 1606 cm.

An azeotrope is distilled from a benzene solution ml.) of 21,l7a-dihydroxy-9a-fiuoro-16a-methyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,l1-dione (0.5 g.). Ethylene glycol (8 ml.) and Evaporation of the solvent gives a The combined amorphous material is chromatographed on silica gel (30 g.). chloroform elutes a glass (0.37 g.) showing a negative oc-ketOl test. Further elution with acetone gives 0.21 g. glass with a weak positive a-ketol test. 9a fluoro 16cc methyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3,1l-dione) obtained by chloroform elution resists crystallization. It is acetylated in pyridine ml.) with acetic anhydride (4 ml.) by standing overnight at room temperature. usual workup gives a glass, which is dissolved in benzene and chromatographed on silica gel (30 g.). elutes an amorphous product (0.25 g.) which is submitted to partition chromatography on Celite (diatornaceous earth) using the system heptanezmethanol and the effiuent is passed through a recording spectrophotometer set at 240 mg. The first fraction containing ultra-violetabsorbing material is obtained at hold-back volume 4; a second fraction occurring at hold-back volumes 7 and 8 is discarded. The first fraction on evaporation of solvent gives solid material (negative a-ketol test) which on recrystallization from acetone-petroleum ether gives 40 mg. of the desired 20-ketal 21-acetate, melting point 203- 204 C.

The material (17a,21-dihydroxy-20-ethylenedioxy- The Acetone We claim:

1. A compound having the formula:

wnerein C is a divalent radical of the group consisting of R is a member of the group consisting of hydrogen and lower alkyl radicals; R is a member of the group consisting of hydrogen, hydroxyl and lower alkanoyloxy radicals; R is a member of the group consisting of hydrogen and lower alkyl radicals; R is a member of the group consisting of hydrogen and fluorine, R is a member of the group consisting of hydrogen, hydroxyl, lower alkanoyloxy and lower alkyl radicals and when R is lower alkyl then R and R are hydrogen and R is a member of the group consisting of hydrogen and lower alkyl radicals.

2. The compound 17a,21-dihydroxy-20-ethylene-dioxy- 1,4-pregnadiene-3,1l-dione.

3. The compound 17a,2l-dihydroxy20-ethylene-dioxy- 6a-methyl l,4-pregnadiene-3,l l-dione.

4. The compound 2(l-ethylenedioxy6a-methyl-l1,13,- l7rx,2ltrihydroxy-1,4-pregnadien-3-one.

S. Th compound 21-acetoxy-11fi,17a-dihydroXy-20- ethylenedioxy-6e-methyl-1,4-pregnadien-3-one.

6. The compound 2l-acetoxy-l7a-hydroxy-20-ethylenedioXy-9 ot-iuoro-6a-methyll ,4-pregnadiene-3 ,1 l-dione.

7. The compound 2Q-ethyleneclioxy-9e-fiuoro-17oc-hydroxy-6a-methyl-1,4-pregnadiene-3, l l-dione.

8. The compound 20-ethylenedioXy-9e-fiuoro-llfi,l6a,- 17a,2l-tetrahydroxy-l,4-pregnadien-3-one.

9. The compound ZO-ethylenedioxy-9a-fiuoro-l7a,21- dihydroxy-l ,4-pregnadiene-3,1 l-dione.

10. The compound Z-ethoxalyl-Z0-ethylenedioXy-6amethyl-1 15,17 x,21-trihydroXy-4-pregnen-3-one.

11. The compound 21-acetoxy-11fi,17 x-dihydroxy-2a,- 6a-dimethyl-20-ethylenedioxy-4-pregnen-3-one.

12. A process of preparing ZO-lower alkylenedioxy- 17a,2l-dihydroxy-1,4-pregnadiene-3,1l-diones which comprises contacting a l7u,2l-dihydroxy-1,4-pregnadiene- 3,11,20-trione with a 1,2-lower alkylenediol in the presence of a strong acid.

13. A process of preparing 20-ethylenedioxy-17a,21-d-ihydroxy-l,4-pregnadiene-3,11-di0nes which comprises contacting a 17u,2l-dihydroxy-l,4-pregnadiene-3,11,20- trione with ethylene glycol in the presence of a strong acid.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,837,464 Nobile June 3, 1958 2,867,631 Lincoln et al. Jan. 6, 1959 2,975,171 Poos Mar. 14, 1961 OTHER REFERENCES Evans et al.: J.C.S. 1958, pp. 1529-1543.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3,069,417 December 18 1962 Martin J. Weiss et a1.

It is hereby certified that error appears in the above numbered patent requiring correction and that the said Letters Patent should read as corrected below.

Column 3, formula "VIII" should appear as shown below instead of as in the patent:

H C0Ac 0 so OH I CH same column 3 formula "IX" should appear as shown below instead of as in the patent:

H C 3 column 11 line 8, for "680" read 68; column 13, lines 39 and 40, strike out "9o;dioxy"; column 16, line 6, for "hydroxy" read dihydroxy Signed and sealed this 3rd day of September 1963 (SEAL) Attest ERNEST W. SWIDER I DAVID L. LADD Attesting Officer Commissioner of Patents 

1. A COMPOUND HAVING THE FORMULA; 